Parade of Lights will be a 'stationary parade' due to bridge project

CORNING | This year's Parade of Lights will be a "stationary parade" due to the Patterson Bridge project, Corning's Gaffer District announced Thursday.

The Parade of Lights, set for Nov. 30, has been a tradition in downtown Corning for the past 18 years. In the past, it has come over the Bridge Street Bridge and then headed west-to-east down Market Street.

But because the state Department of Transportation's Patterson Bridge replacement project has shut down State Route 352, Bridge Street must remain open as an detour route.

Instead of canceling the Parade of Lights, Gaffer District officials came up with the "stationary parade" idea.

Market Street will be closed to traffic, and the floats will set up along the street - as well as adjacent side streets - so visitors can stroll by at their own pace.

The parade will feature many of the same participants as in past years, including emergency vehicles, marching bands and community organizations, according to the Gaffer District.

The festivities will begin at 4 p.m. on Nov. 30, with music and activities in Centerway Square. Santa Claus will arrive in Centerway Square at 6 p.m., followed by the lighting of the city Christmas tree in the Square. All floats in the parade will light up simultaneously along with the Christmas tree.

The illuminated floats will be on display until 8 p.m., to be immediately followed by a fireworks show.

In addition to the traditional judges' awards, there will be a People's Choice Award this year, with folks able to stop in businesses along Market Street and vote for their favorite float.